Body

7 Rules of Gym Etiquette

Gym etiquette is not something that Miss Manners ever addresses — but it’s something we should all learn. The gym is usually a public space, so be polite. And if there’s anything on this list that you’re guilty of doing, stop!

1.Wipe it off.

This is #1 because it’s possibly the grossest no-no on this list. When you’re at the gym you’re likely to work up a sweat. And that’s totally fine! What’s not fine is forgetting to wipe down your machine before another person uses it. You’re basically saying that 1) another person’s time is less valuable than your own and 2) you don’t care about spreading your germs around to anyone who uses that equipment next.

2. Return things.

This is something you should have learned in kindergarten but it still bears repeating. If you’re using weights, medicine balls, or whatever else, remember to put them back where you found them. Leaving your workout detritus all over the place can actually be a safety hazard. Someone could very easily trip over your weights and get hurt.

3. Respect the buffer space.

If there’s a whole row of ellipticals — and most of them are empty save one — remember to use a buffer space when selecting yours. What does this mean? If there are seven machines free but one that’s being used, don’t select the machine right next to the only other person working out. Make sure there’s a buffer of at least one empty machine between you.

4. Don’t hog the bench.

This one applies to locker room behavior. Those skinny benches can’t really hold much. Be considerate and don’t leave your stuff lying around everywhere. A locker room also not a coffee shop, so avoid hanging out there. You should get in and out as fast as possible to make room for other people who need to change.

5. Fill up the right way.

Staying hydrated is necessary during your workout. But some people like to stay more hydrated that others. Don’t fill up anything larger than a water bottle at a public drinking fountain. It takes forever and no one likes waiting in line.

6. Offer to spot.

Not everyone works out with a buddy. But for a lot of exercises like weight lifting, you’ll need someone to spot you. So help someone out and offer to spot them. You might make a new friend in the process. Plus, it’s good karma in case you find yourself in need of a spotter someday.

7. Report damaged equipment.

Have you ever heard the phrase, the squeaky wheel gets the grease? Well if you notice a machine that not’s working right, tell management right away. How else will the machine get fixed if you don’t?

Gym etiquette is not something that Miss Manners ever addresses — but it’s something we should all learn. The gym is usually a public space, so be polite. And if there’s anything on this list that you’re guilty of doing, stop!

1.Wipe it off.

This is #1 because it’s possibly the grossest no-no on this list. When you’re at the gym you’re likely to work up a sweat. And that’s totally fine! What’s not fine is forgetting to wipe down your machine before another person uses it. You’re basically saying that 1) another person’s time is less valuable than your own and 2) you don’t care about spreading your germs around to anyone who uses that equipment next.

2. Return things.

This is something you should have learned in kindergarten but it still bears repeating. If you’re using weights, medicine balls, or whatever else, remember to put them back where you found them. Leaving your workout detritus all over the place can actually be a safety hazard. Someone could very easily trip over your weights and get hurt.

3. Respect the buffer space.

If there’s a whole row of ellipticals — and most of them are empty save one — remember to use a buffer space when selecting yours. What does this mean? If there are seven machines free but one that’s being used, don’t select the machine right next to the only other person working out. Make sure there’s a buffer of at least one empty machine between you.

4. Don’t hog the bench.

This one applies to locker room behavior. Those skinny benches can’t really hold much. Be considerate and don’t leave your stuff lying around everywhere. A locker room also not a coffee shop, so avoid hanging out there. You should get in and out as fast as possible to make room for other people who need to change.

5. Fill up the right way.

Staying hydrated is necessary during your workout. But some people like to stay more hydrated that others. Don’t fill up anything larger than a water bottle at a public drinking fountain. It takes forever and no one likes waiting in line.

6. Offer to spot.

Not everyone works out with a buddy. But for a lot of exercises like weight lifting, you’ll need someone to spot you. So help someone out and offer to spot them. You might make a new friend in the process. Plus, it’s good karma in case you find yourself in need of a spotter someday.

7. Report damaged equipment.

Have you ever heard the phrase, the squeaky wheel gets the grease? Well if you notice a machine that not’s working right, tell management right away. How else will the machine get fixed if you don’t?